Five Thoughtful Icebreaker Questions to Try During Your Next Meeting or Workshop
"Your passions are your compass to discovering the best version of yourself."— Anonymous
A thoughtful icebreaker question can be a powerful tool that provides a wealth of insights for meeting planners, event coordinators, and facilitators. I know it can seem a little touchy-feely, but these questions help groups connect and build trust, setting the stage for a productive workshop.
Here are a few of my favorite icebreaker questions and why I believe they work so well.
1. If You Were Asked to Give a 30-Minute Presentation on a Non-Work Related Topic, and Only Had 5 Minutes to Prepare, What Would Your Presentation Be About?
- Rationale: Public speaking might seem daunting, but everyone has something they’re passionate about. This question reveals participants' interests and passions, often leading to surprising and engaging discussions.
2. Think Back to When You Were a Child, What Did You Want to Be When You Grew Up and Why?
- Rationale: This question encourages participants to reflect on their personal journeys. It often sparks connections over shared childhood dreams, and sometimes you’ll find someone living out their childhood vision, which can ignite lively conversation.
3. What Talent Would You Most Like to Have?
- Rationale: This question helps to level the playing field, especially with executives or participants who may have brought their egos into the room. It encourages participants to admit a weakness indirectly, fostering humility and openness.
4. What Is the Number One Thing People Ask You for Help With?
- Rationale: This question highlights participants' strengths, indirectly inviting them to share what they’re good at. It’s particularly effective when working with a group that’s just beginning to collaborate.
5. What Activity, Outside of Work, Makes You Lose Track of Time?
- Rationale: This question is a great way to get participants to share their hobbies and passions. It often leads to discovering common interests, which helps build rapport and camaraderie within the group.
Closing Thoughts
- Use Thoughtful Icebreakers: Start your next workshop, or team meeting, with one of these questions to set a positive, engaging tone.
- Encourage Connection: Choose questions that allow participants to share personal insights and connect with others.
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